This bill prohibits public utilities from imposing a surcharge on customers who choose not to enroll in automatic payment plans and instead opt for alternative payment methods. These alternative methods include one-time payments made through online credit or debit card transactions, automated telephone systems, or direct bank account withdrawals. The bill defines a surcharge as an additional fee charged by public utilities to recover costs associated with third-party payment processing services.

The legislation aims to protect customers from extra charges when they select payment options other than automatic payments. By ensuring that customers can make payments without incurring additional fees, the bill promotes fair billing practices within the public utility sector. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.